Gun Permit Background check

[Jagwarr]

I live in the state of NJ and have a question about getting a gun permit.

The application says that they will require a mental health waiver and they check to see if one has ever been institutionalized.

Here is my question.

I quit drinking over 9 years ago and during that time I checked myself into a detox on two occasions to get through alcohol withdrawls. Does anyone know if that will be considered as being institutionalized? I was not forced to go but did so at the request of some AA people I met. I also have never been arrested.

Anyone know?

[WilliamC]

I don't know but it might be worth paying a lawyer or someone who would to give you a definitive answer.

Does this only apply to handguns or to shotguns and rifles as well?

[Rattlehead]

Good luck. I hear getting a "permit" in NJ is pretty much impossible.

[Jagwarr]

I don't know but it might be worth paying a lawyer or someone who would to give you a definitive answer.

Does this only apply to handguns or to shotguns and rifles as well?

It applies to both. I'll be moving to Virgina or NH by the end of the year so I guess it might be better to wait and apply in one of those states. If NJ denies me then perhaps I'll be put on some other national database or something which could make it even more difficult.